The icomfort Wi-Fi™ touchscreen thermostat uses cloud connectivity to offer homeowners temperature control from anywhere in the world, at any time, from a smartphone, tablet, laptop, or web-enabled device. It is simple to use, install, and service, said the company.

Model SS610E has been added to the line of patented Safe-T-Switch® electronic condensate overflow control switches. It is designed for use on mini-split systems. It includes reliable, low power-consuming, state-of-the-art microelectronics.

The advent of technology is at its most apparent in the world of thermostats and controls. Manufacturers are developing equipment that can be accessed and operated from Internet-enabled devices on the other side of the world. This article provides a sample of some of today’s latest thermostats and controls.

A recent study, conducted by O2, reveals that smartphone users spend at least two hours each day on their devices, surfing the Internet, utilizing social media, listening to music, gaming, and performing other activities. One of those other activities: setting their thermostat.

ClimateTalk Alliance is an organization of companies committed to developing a common communication infrastructure for HVAC and smart grid devices, enabling the interoperability of diverse systems. Created in 2009, the alliance’s members collaborate and drive the future of the open standards communication framework.

For the last six decades, heating and cooling demand has been controlled using simple, wall-mounted thermostats. This evolution of these controls is undeniable, however, is the technology actually being utilized? And if it is, is it being used correctly?

The patent-pending Barometric Zone Damper™ (BZD) works like any standard damper with one exception: It has a built-in barometric relief mechanism that eliminates the need for a bypass damper, says the company. The damper has been designed with both a fixed and a hinged blade and is controlled by an actuator.

HVAC contractors are working with a select group of homeowners looking to use their mobile devices to remotely control their indoor environment. It’s a niche market now but that should change significantly as more consumers with smart phones and tablets become aware of the remote control capability of HVAC thermostats and systems.

Bay Area Services, a successful HVAC contractor in Green Bay, Wis., is using Internet-connected door locks, security cameras, and thermostats as a means to an end: to build his customer list and increase sales on service calls.

The rapid increase in the use of iPhones, iPads, and countless mobile devices has had a major affect on HVAC products and technologies that enable homeowners to control temperature, humidity, and energy consumption in their homes from anywhere at any time of day.